What makes U Share more than just student housing? The vibrant community and global connections, perfectly showcased at our recent Grand Welcome on April 12th, offer a launchpad for an unforgettable Japan experience. New residents from countries like the USA, Korea, France, Germany, Malaysia, and Australia joined our diverse family, enriching our international environment right here in Tokyo.
The Grand Welcome kicked off with introductions from our Resident Assistants (RAs) – the friendly faces who are passionate about making your U Share life amazing. They shared their motivations for becoming RAs and what drives them, offering a glimpse into the supportive network that’s here for you.
To break the ice and spark connections, we played a fun game called Friends Bingo. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about discovering shared experiences and finding those initial common threads that weave a community together.
Next up was “Lunch & Explore Waseda,” a chance to venture out and discover the local neighborhood. This activity also provided an opportunity to experience Japanese traditional culture, with some groups visiting nearby shrines and Japanese gardens. For those looking for a local flavor, some teams even enjoyed lunch at one of the famous ramen shops near U Share, showcasing the area’s culinary highlights. Whether it was a first-time exploration or a sharing of favorite spots, everyone connected over the experience of navigating and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Waseda.
Back at U Share, the energy continued with a team-based Kahoot! quiz. The questions focused on the home countries of our residents, leading to laughter, learning, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse backgrounds that make U Share so special.
The afternoon also included practical sessions like the Living Guideline and U Share Program sharing, ensuring everyone has the information they need to thrive in our community. We also embarked on creating Bucket Lists, encouraging residents to think about how they want to make the most of their time here and fostering a sense of shared aspirations.
The day concluded with a highlight unique to U Share: a fantastic rooftop BBQ. Enjoying delicious food with stunning panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline in the pleasant spring air, the rooftop became a vibrant hub for connection. This special space offers a fantastic setting to relax, socialize, and appreciate the city. The positive feedback about the rooftop view and the desire to gather there again truly underscore its value as a cherished U Share amenity.
The Grand Welcome, held twice a year in April and September, is just the beginning of your U Share adventure. It’s our way of helping you build connections that span floors and cultures, creating a true sense of belonging. We encourage all our residents to dive in, make the most of the U Share programs and this incredible community, and build friendships that will last long after your time here. Welcome to U Share – where we live together, grow together, and your global network begins.
